September marks the fifth annual national preparedness month.  I didn’t realize it had been in existence that many years.  I thought you would want to know about it.

The US Department of Homeland Security announced back in July that more than 1200 national, regional, state and local businesses and organizations have pledged their support and joined the 2008 National Preparedness Month Coalition.  It’s sponsored by the department's "Ready" campaign.  National Preparedness Month helps to raise awareness and promote action by Americans, businesses and communities on emergency preparedness.

Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff says, "Individual preparedness is the cornerstone of emergency preparedness. Experience shows that if Americans take steps ahead of time, they stand a much better chance of coming through an emergency unharmed and recovering more quickly."  Remember, this is our government telling us this.  As Survival Sam has said before, even the government gets it right now and then, and we should pay attention when they do.

National Preparedness Month Coalition members will distribute emergency preparedness information and sponsor activities across the country that will promote emergency preparedness. Membership in the coalition is open to all public and private sector organizations.  Groups and individuals can register to become members by visiting the Ready Web site at http://www.ready.gov and then click on the National Preparedness Month banner.  If you want more information on the Ready Campaign and National Preparedness Month, visit http://www.ready.gov or call 1-800-BE-READY.

For you and your family, no matter what month it is, it’s always a good idea to get an emergency supply kit, make a family emergency plan, and be informed about the different emergencies that may affect you.  If you’re so inclined, you may want to take the necessary steps to get trained and become engaged in community preparedness and response efforts.

Remember, it’s up to you to be as ready as you can be for survival situations.  Don’t wait on Uncle Sam, especially when he’s soliciting help in telling you to get ready.